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Otsuka Pharmaceutical: A Pioneer in Health Promotion Through Sports

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo and led by President Shin Inoue, has been distinguished as a "Tokyo Sports Promotion Company" for 11 consecutive years. This recognition underscores the company's significant efforts in promoting sports activities for employees and contributing to community health. Additionally, Otsuka Pharmaceutical has been selected as a "Model Company for Sports Promotion (Practicing Division)" for the fiscal year 2025, marking the second time since its initial selection in 2020.

Acknowledgment from Tokyo

The recognition as a "Tokyo Sports Promotion Company" is awarded by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to companies that actively promote sports activities among their employees and engage in social contributions within the sports sector. The "Model Company" designation focuses on those that implement particularly innovative and impactful initiatives within the framework of sports promotion. Otsuka's innovative strategies have transformed the workplace into a hub of health and wellness, showcasing their commitment to employee well-being.

Engaging Employees in Health Initiatives

To instill healthy exercise habits and promote wellness among employees and their families, Otsuka offers a variety of activities, including the "Pocari Refresh" exercise routine, available both in-person and online. By utilizing a smartphone app for walking challenges, Otsuka encourages employees to engage in physical activities within their workplaces and homes. The company also organizes an annual "Company-Wide Walking Event," during which participants not only enhance their health consciousness but also contribute socially; from the autumn of 2023, the winning site has donated Otsuka products to the local government, further supporting health initiatives, heatstroke prevention, and athletic programs.

Virtual Events and Community Engagement

In addition to these hands-on activities, Otsuka has launched the virtual initiative "Pocari Sweat Run & Walk," aimed at fostering health and communication among Otsuka Group employees. Participants from around the globe can engage in this virtual event, ranging from running to walking, reinforcing their commitment to building healthy lifestyles while connecting with colleagues across borders. The 2025 event will include support for Japanese representatives from the Athletic Division and encourage participants to run and walk, broadening the spirit of community and health promotion within the firm.

Recognition as a Model Company

These extensive and innovative efforts have led to Otsuka being named a Model Company for 2025, demonstrating not only a commitment to employee health but also to community welfare. Otsuka aims to continue its legacy of supporting health through practical initiatives that spur engagement and commitment from all employees.

Key Programs Planned for 2025

• - Pocari Refresh: This initiative, originally conducted weekly in the workplace, has adapted to hybrid formats, allowing participation even in remote settings. Online resources, such as archived videos, ensure accessibility for employees and their families, reinforcing the company’s commitment to health.
• - Walking Challenge via Smartphone App: This initiative records and manages employee walking habits, encouraging social contributions by donating products to benefiting communities.
• - Pocari Sweat Run & Walk Event: The virtual format encourages participation from anywhere, with a focus on both local engagement and international teamwork.

Ongoing Commitment to Health

Otsuka has been committed to health since its health declaration in January 2017 and reaffirmed its focus on health initiatives in March 2020 under President Shin Inoue. The company believes in the importance of every employee living a vibrant, healthy life,equipping them with the required knowledge and resources to thrive.

Through continuous health seminars and programs, Otsuka Pharmaceutical aims to foster an environment that not only prioritizes health but equips employees with tools for long-term wellness.

Under the guiding principle of "Otsuka-people creating new products for better health worldwide," Otsuka is dedicated to enhancing overall public health and contributing to sustainable and healthy communities.

For more details on Otsuka Pharmaceutical's health initiatives, you can visit their sustainability webpage. This showcases their dedication to solving social issues through their business while ensuring sustainable growth and a healthier society.

The company’s focus on fostering a supportive work environment underlines its commitment to sustainable health management — encouraging every employee to identify their own health goals continuously. With the establishment of the newly formed "Sustainability Promotion Department" in 2025, Otsuka plans to further enhance its focus on employee health and related sustainability initiatives.